Released in 1974, Waterloo, ABBA’s second studio album, catapulted the Swedish quartet to international stardom. While the album owes its iconic status largely to its Eurovision-winning title track, Waterloo, the record as a whole offers a diverse mix of catchy melodies, heartfelt ballads, and playful storytelling that showcases ABBA's early range and charisma.

A somewhat confusing aspect, however, is the different linear structure of the album with few international releases retaining the original tracking of the Swedish release, where the Swedish version of Waterloo opens the album and the English rendition is the closer. While it could be argued as to which version is preferred, not to mention the further shifts with bonus material on the Deluxe Edition and Bonus Track Edition, I’ve chosen to share the album via the original tracking of the vinyl release as this has always been my preferred structure and is true to the original intent. It also replicates the 2020 vinyl reissue from The Studio Albums that I’m fortunate to own.

Speaking of the vinyl reissue, it is amongst the best-sounding reproductions that I’ve heard, thus far, of this classic album. Granted, I haven’t heard every release but the reproduction is subjectively perfect with a bold, yet enveloping, soundstage that will capture your attention from the very first note to the last. Of course, the question that must be asked is what my thoughts are regarding the Apple Music stream, a lossless Apple Digital Master. Let’s just say that it is the digital counterpart to the vinyl reissue and that unless you’re dedicated to the needle drop process, for digitising your records, you’ll be utterly thrilled with this digital edition for it offers everything the vinyl reissue does, minus the tactile aspect and the slightly more rounded (think warmer) tonality that is commonly associated with vinyl releases. The result is that no matter which of these two versions you choose to listen to, you’ll find yourself thoroughly captivated. I would, however, keep my distance from the Deluxe Edition; unless you wish to attain the additional songs and updated album artwork it offers, that is. My reasoning for this suggestion is that I find it too shrill and fatiguing to listen to. The chosen mastering doesn’t encourage the music lover to turn the volume up and each time I listen to it I find myself wanting to turn the volume down. Naturally, your experience may differ, but let’s turn our attention to the songs that make up this historic release.

Waterloo (Swedish Version) is an upbeat and infectious pop anthem that blends rock and glam elements with ABBA’s signature harmonies. While presented here in ABBA’s native Swedish language, it’s so compelling that it really doesn’t matter which version you appreciate more for the Swedish Version is the ideal opener to this classic album.

Sitting In The Palmtree has a tropical flair and carefree vibe. Its quirky charm makes it a hidden gem, but it’s also quintessentially ABBA as their lighthearted musical style shines throughout.

King Kong Song continues the playfulness with this irresistible rock number. Blending a mix of hard rock guitar riffs, eccentric vocals, and an overall upbeat styling, King Kong Song isn’t merely a novelty track but one that is ideally positioned in the era while keeping the core of ABBA’s pop sensibilities intact.

Hasta Mañana offers a more mellow moment with Agnetha on lead vocals, delivering a tender ballad that is one of ABBA’s greatest tunes and one that many casual fans have likely never heard.

My Mama Said is another exceptional tune that hasn’t received the recognition it deserves for the funk-driven number, shifting vocal style, and the overall mix gives the song a sense of maturity and introspection showcasing ABBA in a different light to their more lighthearted tunes.

Dance (While The Music Still Goes On) is a strong contender for ABBA’s first true foray into a dancefloor-focused song. Featuring a captivating melody and lush harmonies, Dance (While The Music Still Goes On) is thoroughly enjoyable; even if it isn’t a standout from the album. Of course, for an album to be exceptional, all songs need not be a hit, for it is the combination of all elements that ensures an album is a worthwhile experience.

Honey, Honey is a sweet and flirtatious pop song that blends ABBA’s knack for catchy hooks with lighthearted lyrics. With its infectious rhythm, sparkling melodies, and sing-along chorus, there’s little doubt as to why this track became a fan favourite as it captures the essence of ABBA’s early style.

Watch Out sees ABBA venture into rock territory once again, this time with a hard-edged song featuring Björn on lead vocals. While not known for their rock songs, ABBA has always impressed when edging towards this styling for the aggressive guitar riffs and energetic pace contrasts nicely against the pop sheen of other songs from the album.

What About Livingstone? returns the album to a whimsical style with this upbeat number. Featuring a light, bouncy rhythm, What About Livingstone? gives music lovers more of the styling that would ultimately make ABBA a household name. No matter how many of us appreciated their more polished numbers, there’s something extremely compelling about these playful kinds of tunes as they make you smile each time they’re played.

Gonna Sing You My Love Song is one of the more tender and soulful tracks on Waterloo. While it may be lacking the immediate hook of some of the album’s other songs, it stands apart for its emotional resonance and is another of ABBA’s hidden gems. Of course, when an artist such as ABBA has such an incredible back catalogue of music, some tunes are destined to be overlooked, but Gonna Sing You My Love Song shouldn’t be one of them for it is one of ABBA’s greatest recordings.

Suzy-Hang-Around is another of ABBA’s lighthearted numbers to feature a gentle melody and subtle arrangement. It’s most certainly an album-only tune, but as mentioned earlier, an album experience is the sum of all its parts, not just a couple of hit songs.

Waterloo (English Version) is the ideal bookend closer to the album as it encourages me to play the record again as Waterloo is one album that can be seldom listened to once.

ABBA’s Waterloo was a pivotal album in their career, showcasing the band’s diverse musical abilities and their growing confidence as performers and songwriters. With a mix of jubilant anthems, tender ballads, and experimental rock numbers, the album laid the foundation for ABBA’s future success. Yes, Waterloo will forever be linked to their Eurovision triumph, but the album contains hidden gems that highlight ABBA’s evolution from a regional pop act to international superstars. The bottom line is that Waterloo is a fun, vibrant, and eclectic record that has stood the test of time.